Parthiv Patel grateful after making a comeback to Indian Test squad for Australia tour

Just when wicketkeeper-batsman Parthiv Patel’s Test career looked like it was over, he’s been awarded a wildcard entry into India’s Test squad for the tour of Australia. Parthiv was in the mix of things until January this year, when he played against South Africa in the 3-match Test series. However, the selectors preferred Dinesh Karthik over him for the lengthy England tour, but once Karthik failed with the bat, they roped in youngster Rishabh Pant.

In the race for the gloves, there are now 3 capable cricketers, and Patel would perhaps consider himself having the least chances, especially since Pant has age on his side, and has also been scoring quite heavily in the longest format. Nevertheless, what remains an important factor is the venue – Australia brings with it pace and bounce, and keeping wickets on pitches there can be quite a nightmare. The job demands experience, which Parthiv indeed has.

Selectors laud Parthiv’s grit

Chief selector MSK Prasad mentioned that there were several factors that were taken into account for Parthiv’s selection. While his experience Down Under was key, Prasad also lauded the left-hander’s grit after being drafted into the Test squad for the Australia tour. He had earlier walked in to open the innings for India with a fractured hand. The 33-year-old can also be slotted in at various positions in the batting order.

While Pant remains the first-choice wicketkeeper for India, the selectors have preferred Parthiv over the rest of the options. He was visibly happy to have made it back to the Test squad and took to Twitter to express his gratitude. He simply tweeted, “God’s grace…”.

A 17-year Parthiv Patel had made his Test debut way back in 2002 against England in Nottingham. He was India’s main wicketkeeper until MS Dhoni came into the scene. During Dhoni’s Test career, the likes of Karthik and Parthiv had to watch from the sidelines, but are now back in contention for the spot behind the stumps. Patel has played 25 Tests, scoring just under a thousand runs at a decent average of 31.

India take on Australia in 4 Test matches later this year, the first of which gets underway at the Adelaide Oval on December 6.

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